A few weeks ago, we blogged about how information modeling works in SketchUp. A data-rich .skp can pull off some complex feats, but we prefer to think about an information model as a simple relationship: graphical geometry with any kind of data associated.
With no data, the model is only a design (and maybe a very good one). Without the model, the data is, perhaps, only a math problem (and maybe a pretty smart one). Put them together, and you have the basis for one incredibly powerful output of information modeling: performance-based design.
Architects who practice performance-based design are often trying to measure, adhere to, or optimize building performance: the measurable index of a building�s energy efficiency or operational cost.
The folks at Sefaira are pretty keen on this idea. Their plugin -- Sefaira for SketchUp -- helps architects make decisions that optimize building performance while designing in SketchUp. So now imagine understanding how early-stage conceptual (or practical) choices might affect a building�s ability to retain or dissipate heat throughout the day. We think this is a powerful way to think about design, so together with Sefaira (and some other friends), we�re hosting a competition focused on performance-based design. We call it PER/FORM.
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| PER/FORM: a live performance-based design competition |
You can learn all about the PER/FORM competition on this site, but here are the basics: After an April 2nd registration deadline*, the competition starts with a design brief and three weeks of access to Sefaira for SketchUp. You�ll also have support from the Sefaira team so that you can learn the ins and outs of performance-based building design.
We�ll select 30 winners from the online round, and -- here�s the kicker -- those finalists will have the opportunity to compete live in the final round at the Pratt Institute's Manhattan campus on May 17th. That�s right: this is going to be a real-deal, big city SketchUp shootout.
The top three designers will take home cash prizes, and the winner will see his or her design featured in Metropolis Magazine. What�s that? You don�t have much experience with energy or information modeling? Well, three weeks of free access to a SketchUp energy modeling plugin sounds like a good place to start, right?
*We�re sorry to say that this competition is only open to U.S. and Canada participants. Stay tuned for future contests that don�t have this restriction.
